Karachi: WWF-Pakistan has commended the Government of Balochistan for designating Miani Hor as the third Marine Protected Area (MPA) in the country. The decision was ratified during a meeting of the Provincial Cabinet of Balochistan on Tuesday, underscoring the region’s commitment to preserving its rich marine biodiversity.
Miani Hor, situated in the Lasbela District, is recognized for its ecological significance. It supports thriving mangrove forests, home to three distinct species, and serves as a vital fishing ground for local communities. The lagoon’s unique marine life and fast oceanic currents have made it an area of interest for environmental conservation.
The site was previously designated a Ramsar Site in 2001, highlighting its importance as a wetland of international significance. In 2022, its mangrove forest attained the status of a Protected Forest. Despite these designations, the area’s ecosystem faces threats from overfishing, bird hunting, and climate change.
WWF-Pakistan lauded the efforts of Abdul Fatah Bhangar and Sharifuddin Baloch for their roles in securing the MPA designation. The move aligns with Pakistan’s commitment to the Convention on Biological Diversity’s Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which calls for 30% of ocean areas to be protected by 2030.
Rab Nawaz, a senior director at WWF-Pakistan, urged federal and provincial authorities to follow Balochistan’s lead by declaring more MPAs. This initiative is seen as a crucial step towards reversing damage to marine ecosystems and safeguarding marine life for future generations.
Muhammad Moazzam Khan, a technical advisor at WWF-Pakistan, highlighted Miani Hor as a biodiversity hotspot, hosting a variety of species including fish, birds, and dolphins. He emphasized the area’s significance as a habitat for both migratory and resident bird species.
The declaration is also expected to boost ecotourism, which has become an alternative source of income for local communities. Activities such as dolphin watching, bird watching, and sport fishing are gaining popularity, contributing to the region’s socio-economic development. Khan noted that the MPA status could further enhance these opportunities, benefiting the coastal populations around Miani Hor.